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Principal Engineer - Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, Thermal Spray, Materials Science

AT GE Vernova
GE Vernova

Principal Engineer - Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, Thermal Spray, Materials Science

Schenectady, NY

Job Description Summary

GE Vernova Research-Energy Research is looking for a Principal Engineer -Thermal Spray. You will contribute to and lead the development of projects and technologies related to solid oxide fuel and electrolysis cells, especially in thermal spray coating process. This role will have exciting opportunities to help define and develop sustainable solutions to the biggest challenges in the ongoing Energy Transition and sustainability fuels, which is the core of GE Vernova business.

As a GE Vernova accelerator, GE Vernova Advanced Research is driving strategy and leading research & development efforts to execute on the business's mission to help power the energy transition. We forge the collaborations and help invent the technologies required to electrify and decarbonize for a zero-carbon future.

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Representing virtually every major scientific and engineering discipline, our researchers are collaborating with GE Vernova's businesses, the U.S. government, and more than 420 entities at the forefront of technology to execute on 150+ energy-focused projects. Collectively, these research programs and initiatives aim to solve near term technical challenges, deliver next generation product advances, and drive long term breakthrough innovation to enable more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy.

Job Description

Roles and Responsibilities

As a Principal Engineer - Materials Science, you will:

  • Conduct and lead projects in energy conversion and storage, solid oxide fuel cells and solid oxide electrolysis cells
  • Conduct and lead basic & applied research including thermal spray process development and optimization for coating deposition, materials discovery, fuel cells testing, postmortem analysis, advance materials characterization, performance & stability data analysis and modelling
  • Work independently and guide development of new technologies and capabilities to enable the use of solid oxide cells in existing and new products.
  • Design & execute experiments, and independently lead tasks to benefit GE Vernova businesses and customers.
  • Shape proposals with GEV businesses, government agencies, universities, and national laboratories. Contribute and lead proposal teams as Principal Investigator or as a team member.
  • Formulate system requirements for energy conversion projects.
  • Prepare written reports and presentations for stakeholders that describe the value, strategy & approach and results of work.
  • Coordinate analytical work to define, meet or exceed customer entitlements.
  • Develop and identify new technology, products and service opportunities in the area of energy conversion and storage
  • Connect the organization to the latest technology developments and trends.
  • Be aware of competing and disruptive technologies and leverage that knowledge to develop robust technology for the business

Required Qualifications

  • Doctorate Degree in Thermal Spray, Materials science, or related field with a minimum of 20 years of experience in developing solid oxide cells and systems for fuel formulation and production, or Master's Degree in Thermal Spray, Materials science, Ceramics, or related field with a minimum of 25 years of experience in developing solid oxide cells and systems for fuel formulation and production
  • Proven record of innovation in energy storage and conversion technologies, including solid oxide fuel or electrolysis cells, and system integration, thermal spray coating process development, materials synthesis, cells assembly, performance testing, manufacturing, supply chain development
  • Practical knowledge of safety practices as it relates to experimental design and lab practices.
  • Demonstrated project execution experience, teamwork experience & ability to work across all functions/levels as part of a team.
  • Must be willing to work out of an office located in Niskayuna, NY.


  • Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.


  • We will not sponsor individuals at the Masters level for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.


  • Must be 18 years or older.


  • You must submit your application for employment at www.gecareers.com to be considered.

Desired Characteristics

  • Expertise in thermal spray coating deposition, manufacturing, material synthesis, process development, cell assembly, performance and stability testing, postmortem analysis and material characterization


  • Experience at a commercial solid oxide cell manufacturer or at a government research facility in the area of solid oxide fuel cells or electrolysis cells


  • Demonstrated history of project leadership, publications and IP generation in the area of solid oxide fuel and/or electrolysis cells


  • Strong data analytical skills, demonstrated creative problem-solving skills using innovative and hands-on solutions.


  • Self-motivated and ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team


  • Strong interpersonal skills, highly motivated, self-confidence and have goals for a career in industrial research.


  • Ability to adapt to change and willingness to be flexible in a global team environment.

The salary range for this position is $128,000 - $213,000 USD, annually. The specific salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's experience, their education, and the work location. This position is also eligible for a performance bonus. This position will remain posted until at least October 31st, 2024.

GE provides a comprehensive benefits package that provides access to plans which support the overall wellbeing of our employees and their dependents. These benefits include, but are not limited to, health care coverage (medical, dental, vision, pharmacy), a retirement plan that includes Company Retirement Savings and a 401K with Company matching, Life Insurance options, Disability coverage, paid time-off, EAP, and more.

GE offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).

Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes

Client-provided location(s): Niskayuna, NY, USA
Job ID: GE_power-1213260239
Employment Type: Other

Perks and Benefits

  • Health and Wellness

    • Health Insurance
    • Health Reimbursement Account
    • Dental Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Short-Term Disability
    • Long-Term Disability
    • FSA
    • FSA With Employer Contribution
    • HSA
    • HSA With Employer Contribution
    • Fitness Subsidies
    • On-Site Gym
    • Mental Health Benefits
  • Parental Benefits

    • Adoption Assistance Program
    • Family Support Resources
    • Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
    • Adoption Leave
  • Work Flexibility

    • Flexible Work Hours
    • Remote Work Opportunities
    • Hybrid Work Opportunities
  • Office Life and Perks

    • Commuter Benefits Program
    • Casual Dress
    • On-Site Cafeteria
    • Holiday Events
  • Vacation and Time Off

    • Unlimited Paid Time Off
    • Paid Holidays
    • Personal/Sick Days
    • Summer Fridays
  • Financial and Retirement

    • 401(K)
    • Stock Purchase Program
    • Performance Bonus
    • Relocation Assistance
    • Financial Counseling
    • Profit Sharing
  • Professional Development

    • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Access to Online Courses
    • Lunch and Learns
    • Leadership Training Program
    • Internship Program
    • Associate or Rotational Training Program
  • Diversity and Inclusion

    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
    • Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
    • Unconscious Bias Training

Company Videos

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